24 Hours in Kennebunkport Maine

A few weeks ago my mom and I did a New England road trip. We landed in Boston, rented a car, and drove an hour to Kennebunkport, Maine. Don’t ask me why, but Kennebunkport was a place in the United States I’ve wanted to visit for as long as I can remember. Every photo I’ve seen oozes charm and coziness, I was excited to experience it for myself! The drive was an easy one and we enjoyed all the fall foliage on our drive.

We were only in this charming town for 24 hours, but I already can’t wait to go back in the summer. It’s such a family friendly spot and perfect if you and your mom like visiting charming places together. Today I’m sharing all there is to do in 24 hours in Kennebunkport, aka Southern Maine. Read all about our day below!

24 Hours in Kennebunkport, Maine

Where to Stay in Kennebunkport Maine

Captain Lord Mansion

There’s lots of lodging in Kennebunkport, just do your research and see what has availability and is in your price range. Captain Lord Mansion was the cutest little home turned BNB and was within walking distance to town. We stayed in the third-floor monkey room and loved the comfy bed, floor warmers, and great shower. Make sure you stay for their delicious breakfast too.

A funny thing was Captain Lord didn’t have an elevator and our room was on the third floor. It was comical watching us carry our heavy suitcases up all the stairs! The staff was so sweet and offered to help but we felt bad making them do it when we’re the ones that overpacked!

Where to Eat

Rococo Ice Cream

When you’re walking around time and your sweet tooth hits, stop by Rococo Ice Cream. You can also buy their ice cream online. We stopped here twice for their delicious, creamy ice cream.

Satellite Doughnuts

I’ve heard so much about these doughnuts, but they were closed for the season when we visited. If you’re there, stop and see if they’re open! Doughnuts are always a good idea and the perfect road trip snack.

Alisson’s

We stopped here for lunch and they have a little bit of everything on the menu. My mom got some clam chowder and I had fish and chips. It was the perfect spot to warm up and take a minute to refuel. I heard the lobster roll was one of the things that they’re known for at Alisson’s.

Dock Square Coffee House

Grab a coffee and a pastry while you’re walking around town! It’s not super cold in October, just a little chilly. So it was nice having a hot coffee in hand as we walked around.

Hurricane

The “it” dinner restaurant in Kennebunkport is Hurricane. We had the yummiest dinner and wine in a very elegant environment. I had the Guinness Braised Beef Spiced Short Rib and my mom had the Hurricane Garlic Shrimp. Make sure you make a reservation and dress somewhat nice. It’s a great dinner to splurge on or go to celebrate a special occasion.

Salt & Honey

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day when you’re traveling. Arrive at Salt and Honey early to avoid crowds and fuel up for the day at this cozy brunch and breakfast spot. We recommend you try the lobster omelet or breakfast burrito. Both were so yummy and we left so stuffed.

Where to Shop

Scalawags

Explore Dock Square and pop in and out of the adorable boutiques. Our first stop was Scalawags! Pick up something for your furry friend at Kennebunkport’s pet boutique. I wanted one of everything in the store for Fitzy and Gatsby and loved petting all the dogs that were inside.

Copper Candle

If there’s one thing I love, it’s candles! The Copper Candle had a great selection of candles and the back room was a Christmas wonderland filled with decor and ornaments. Fall candles are my favorite so I stocked up on lots of scents like apple cider, spiced pumpkin and autumn wreath. They even ship for a fee of you don’t want to weigh down your suitcase.

Daytrip Society

My favorite store in Kinnebunkport was Daytrip Society. They had Keds, unique gifts, and odds and ends. My mom and I picked up items for friends, our nephews, and even a few things for ourselves.

Of course, the best thing to do in Kennebunkport is to walk around and see things for yourself. We loved looking at all the quaint houses and buildings. It’s such a walkable down, it’s great to grab a warm beverage and pop in and out of boutiques along the way. Make sure you also stop to see the Kennebunk River! It’s so beautiful and peaceful. I’m dying to come back in the summer to see more of the ocean, beach, coast, and cape. It looked like there were a lot of local water activities that would be so fun when it’s warmer out.

My mom and I also recommend if you’re into history research the local families. Read about Rachel Carson, Bush Family, and the First Families Kennebunkport.

Some museums and activities that we didn’t get to see (and are on our list for next time) are the Cape Porpoise Pier, Goat Island Lighthouse, Seashore Trolley Museum, Tides Beach Club, Hidden Pond, Cape Arundel, Families Kennebunkport Museum, Goose Rocks Beach, Carson National Wildlife and the National Wildlife Refuge, and the Brick Store Museum.

What about you? Have you ever been to Kennebunkport? What’s your favorite part about this charming town and the Maine Coast? Share with me in a comment below!

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